Fortuna Sittard's new away shirt featuring Saint Rosa is an immediate sales hit. The club reports the shirts are also selling internationally, as reported by L1 Nieuws this week. The design honors the patron saint of Sittard, whose annual procession traditionally takes place at the end of August. Fortuna currently sits eighth in the Eredivisie with four points from three matches and a goal difference of zero.
Why is Saint Rosa important to Sittard?
Saint Rose of Lima is the patron saint of both Peru and the city of Sittard. She was officially declared the patron of Sittard in 1669. This followed prayers by residents to her in 1668 during a severe dysentery and plague epidemic. The Saint Rosa Chapel was built on the Kollenberg in her honor. The saint, born in 1586 as Isabel Flores de Oliva, was canonized by Pope Clement X in 1671. She was the first person from South America to be canonized and is known for her work with the poor and sick.
What makes the new away shirt special?
The shirt is more than just club kit; it is a symbol of local identity and history. The connection to Saint Rosa gives it a unique story that resonates with fans. Sales are so strong that the shirts are being purchased beyond the country's borders. This highlights the broader appeal of the club and its narrative. The merchandising success comes as Fortuna Sittard prepares for its next away fixture, against FC Groningen on August 28.
How is Fortuna Sittard performing in the league?
The club has started the 2026/27 season with mixed form. After three matchdays, Fortuna Sittard is in eighth place in the standings. It has recorded one win, one draw, and one loss, totaling four points. The goal difference is balanced with five goals scored and five conceded. The team currently trails league leaders AZ Alkmaar by five points. Fans can follow the full team statistics on our stats page.
What does this mean for the coming period?
The positive attention around the away shirt gives the club an off-field boost. It shows the bond with the local community is strong and has commercial potential. On the sporting front, an important away match against fifth-placed FC Groningen awaits. A good result could solidify their position in the middle of the table. The squad, listed on our squad page, will want to focus on the league after the buzz around the new kit. The coming weeks will reveal if the sales momentum can be translated into points.
